Matt Smith spoke to the media ahead of Newport County's trip to Crewe Alexandra, reflecting on the club's positive start to the season, his return to the starting XI and the belief within the squad as the Exiles look to secure their first away league victory.
County have enjoyed a much-improved campaign, with the performances and work ethic of the squad helping to create a positive atmosphere both on and off the pitch.
Matt believes the effort shown by the players has been recognised by supporters, making Rodney Parade an increasingly enjoyable place to play.
“It's enjoyable to play for Newport at the minute, and it's a great place to come and work. It's a really enjoyable place to come and train and then come and play in front of the Newport fans.”
The midfielder also praised the impact of manager Hayden Mullins, highlighting the togetherness he has brought to the squad and the approach that has helped County become a difficult side to beat.
“He's brought his own ideas in, and I think all the lads have bought into it. He's really brought togetherness in the squad, and the way that we're playing is working.”
Matt believes the team has found effective ways to win games, placing greater importance on results than possession.
“I'd rather be winning games having no possession than having loads of possession and not doing very well.”
After working his way back into the starting XI in recent weeks, Matt reflected on the patience required when opportunities are limited. He admitted it can be frustrating but stressed the importance of maintaining standards in training and being ready when called upon.
“It's just about being ready. When you get called upon, you've got to be ready for the task. You've got to train every day to the maximum of your ability.”
The midfielder also opened up about the difficulties he experienced last season with injuries and limited playing time, revealing that conversations over the summer helped him focus on earning his place back in the team.
“I felt like I owed it to the Newport fans to try and get in the team. The support they showed me was fantastic, so I wanted to try and back that up.”
With competition for places strong across the squad, Matt believes the depth available is an important factor in County's progress.
“Having competition for places is healthy. We've got a really good squad, and I think to be successful you've got to have a really good squad and really healthy competition.”
County now turn their attention to Saturday's trip to Crewe, with the midfielder confident the Exiles have the ability to pick up a positive result on the road.
“It's not easy to go away from home in this league and win, but I'm sure we're capable of doing that.”
Matt added that the squad will approach the fixture one game at a time, using the positive response to previous setbacks as motivation.
“We've got to look at a game at a time. We've done well at that. The reaction after the disappointment against Cheltenham was to go and get a result against Chesterfield.”
With the hunger for a first away league win firmly within the squad, Matt is hopeful County can turn their belief into three points at Crewe.